Conservative Councillor Alastair Redman, was among volunteers when the first significant excavation of Dunyvaig Castle began on August 13th 2018. 

Long considered one of the most majestic archaeological monuments on Islay, Dunyvaig Castle was once a strong-hold of the Lords of the Isles, the chiefs of the Clan MacDonald.

After a year of careful planning, following the Lagavulin 200 Legacy project, Islay Heritage has begun the first significant archaeological excavation of the site with archaeologists from across our United Kingdom converging on Lagavulin Bay.

Posting on Twitter, Diageo GB said "Many thanks to Councillor @AlastairRedman for joining us at @LagavulinWhisky to celebrate this landmark moment for Islay and its historic legacy. We can’t wait to see what @IslayHeritage uncovers"

Cllr Alastair Redman said "I was delighted to join Islay Heritage along with local and national volunteers including Baron George Robertson of Port Ellen as they broke ground on Sunday the 12 of August.

"A huge thanks to everyone involved in the setting up and catering for the archaeological dig along with everyone who picked up a spade to help out including the huge amount of volunteers.

"It's our heritage and history. I'm so proud this is happening and can't wait to discover more."